China is preparing to set up electric vehicle (EV) factories and other manufacturing operations in Nigeria.
The move is aimed at boosting economic collaboration between the two nations and tapping into Nigeria’s growing interest in clean transportation and solid minerals.
The decision was revealed after a meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai. During the meeting, both officials discussed plans to deepen cooperation in areas that include the development of electric mobility and the processing of Nigeria’s natural resources.
Chinese officials shared that EV production in Nigeria could help support local industries and add value to the country’s rich supply of minerals like lithium. This mineral is especially vital for battery production. By manufacturing EVs locally, Nigeria could move closer to its goal of becoming an industrial hub in Africa and reduce its dependence on imports.
The announcement also comes as part of China’s broader commitment to support industrial development across Africa. Recent meetings between Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and Chinese President Xi Jinping have focused on building a stronger strategic partnership. This includes projects that tie into Nigeria’s economic diversification plans and China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
China’s involvement in Nigeria’s mining sector is not new. Chinese companies already work in exploration and processing. However, the Nigerian government has raised concerns about illegal mining activities linked to some Chinese firms. In response, Ambassador Dunhai assured that China does not support such actions and encourages strict compliance with Nigerian laws.
According to the ambassador, China has directed its companies in Nigeria to maintain proper Corporate Social Responsibility practices and meet environmental and safety requirements. The Chinese embassy has also pledged to help Nigerian authorities take legal action against companies that violate mining regulations.
Minister Alake noted that while some Chinese companies have breached rules, the majority are operating legally and contributing to Nigeria’s economic goals. He said the country remains open to investors who are ready to follow the law and help drive industrial growth through clean technology and sustainable practices.
As part of Nigeria’s broader vision, the government wants to attract investors to build electric vehicles and batteries within the country. With an abundance of lithium, local manufacturing is viewed as a practical step toward reducing costs, creating jobs, and cutting emissions.
Nigeria’s EV market has been growing slowly but steadily. Reports earlier this year showed that electric vehicles are already being sold in the country, with prices ranging from N12 million to N150 million. Meanwhile, Nigerian companies like C&I Leasing Plc have expanded their EV operations, signaling increased interest in clean transport solutions.
China remains Nigeria’s biggest source of imports. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows that imports from China reached N14.14 trillion in 2024, more than doubling the previous year’s figure. With this new development, China’s economic footprint in Nigeria is set to grow even further, now with a focus on manufacturing and sustainable mobility.
As both countries move forward with these plans, the establishment of EV factories in Nigeria may mark the beginning of a new chapter in their partnership—one rooted in shared economic goals, cleaner technology, and stronger regulatory cooperation.